How Much Do Arabica Coffee Beans Cost? | Cost of Arabica Coffee Beans vs Others

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Forming part of the backbone of Italy’s iconic coffee culture, Arabica (Coffea arabica) is the most widely produced bean species. Grown at high altitudes, Arabica coffee has a naturally sweet and smooth taste, perfect for espressos and lighter blends. But a refined and nuanced flavour profile is reflected in its cost, and it may be more expensive compared to other bean types.

Here, we’ll explore what may impact the cost of Arabica coffee beans, and how to choose the best flavours that suit both your budget and palate.

What Affects the Cost of Arabica Coffee Beans?

One of the most beloved coffee varieties, Arabica is known for its superior quality and complex flavours, contributing significantly to global coffee production. Planted across the world, including Central and South America (Brazil and Colombia), Africa, and Indonesia, they thrive at high altitudes and have specific requirements that may make cultivating Arabica coffee plants more challenging than others.

Due to this, certain complexities may impact the cost of Arabica coffee beans:

• The Altitude: The superior flavour and complexity of the yield means that Arabica coffee often has a higher cost due to its altitude.
• Weather or Climate Patterns: Coffee beans are incredibly sensitive to their surroundings, as well as to weather conditions such as droughts or frosts, and climate change, which may reduce yields while also affecting quality and prices.
• The Harvesting Process: Arabica beans are processed using various methods, including natural (dry), washed (wet), and honey (pulped natural). The most expensive is the wet method, which produces a bright and acidic flavour.
• The Global Demand for Premium Arabica: With a premium taste and quality, high-altitude Arabica often has a strong demand in the coffee market.

Essentially, the quality of the bean reflects how well the processing goes; the better the processing, the higher the cost of Arabica coffee beans. For a premium taste, look for high-quality coffee beans.

Carluccio’s takes pride in delivering authentic Italian coffee. We source high-quality coffee beans from across the world, which are then roasted in Italy using traditional methods.

Shop our entire Italian Coffee Collection here.

How Much Do Arabica Beans Cost?

According to market research, the average price of Arabica coffee has steadily risen from 2014 to 2026, costing around £ 3.50 per 250g worldwide.

The cost of Arabica coffee beans varies depending on the brand, quality, and where they are bought. Retail prices typically range from £10 to £30 per kilo. But this is not a set price. Speciality or high-quality beans may accumulate in higher costs, which is reflected in their complex flavour profile.

If you buy Arabica beans wholesale or as a subscription, this may lower the overall price per kilo due to bulk purchasing.

Arabica vs Robusta Beans: Which Costs More?

Arabica beans are generally more expensive than Robusta (Coffea canephora). This is because Robusta is much easier to cultivate and is grown at lower altitudes.

In the table below, compare Arabica vs Robusta on several features:

	Arabica	Robusta
Flavour Profile	Smooth, sweet and a refined taste – favoured in premium coffee	Strong, bitter, and earthy – perfect for espresso blends and instant coffee
Average Cost	Higher: approximately between £3.50 and £7.00 per 250g	Lower: between £1.50 and £3.00 per 250g
Caffeine Content	Lower	Higher
Production Yield	Lower: Arabica is a more delicate plant, resulting in slow growth at high altitudes.	Higher: Robusta is a hardier plant, easier to farm, and thrives at lower altitudes.
Processing Method	Commonly harvested by wet methods, which increase labour costs	Often dry-processed, which is a cheaper method
Market Demand	Higher demand in speciality markets	Used often in blends and generic products

For more information, read our Arabica vs. Robusta guide, which weighs up their flavours and features to help you make an informed choice.

Is the Price of Arabica Coffee Worth it?

Although the cost of Arabica coffee is generally higher than that of other beans, you can expect a superior and complex flavour profile. With lower caffeine, expect a smooth and refined taste to be enjoyed at any time – perfect for a morning coffee.

Certain speciality brands focus on sourcing beans and harvesting ethically, valuing fair trade and sustainable production. The higher cost may support better farming practices.

But it’s all about your needs. For a smooth and refined taste, consider Arabica blends, such as those found in Milanese-style coffees.

Where to Find the Best Arabica Coffee

The cost of Arabica coffee beans may vary depending on where they are bought. Supermarkets and discount shops may sell cheaper bags for a lower quality of beans. Consider high-quality coffee from speciality coffee roasters for an enhanced taste.

One way to save money is by bulk buying or subscribing to a coffee service. At Carluccio’s, we provide a coffee subscription to get your desired caffeine fix. From the sweet and smooth flavours of Northern Italy, with our Milano Coffee containing 100% Arabica beans, to Southern blends with a Robusta kick – there's a perfect cup for every coffee lover.

Start with two coffee bean bags to activate your subscription and save 5% on the total cost. Enjoy a flexible and hassle-free way to get your morning coffee!

Browse our entire collection of authentic Italian coffee here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Arabica coffee more expensive than Robusta?

Generally, Arabica beans are more expensive compared to Robusta because of the complexities with their harvesting: they’re harder to grow and yield less per plant.

The smoother and refined taste of Arabica coffee also makes them more in demand on the market, particularly with speciality coffee drinkers.

Has climate change affected the price of Arabica beans?

Yes, climate change has impacted the prices of Arabica coffee. Due to the unpredictable weather conditions in which Arabica beans are grown, such as rainfall and rising temperatures, the yield has decreased.

Is Arabica coffee always better than Robusta?

Not always – it depends on your specific taste. Arabica is known for its smooth, less bitter, and complex flavours, making it a perfect cup for everyday drinking.

But, if you want a stronger kick, more crema, and intense flavours, Robusta is for you. When well-roasted, Robusta adds a great body to espresso blends.

Shop our Italian Coffee Collection, including blends of Arabica and Robusta, here.

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